Introduction
Spaghetti and Meatballs is a timeless classic that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs and rich, savory tomato sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for those who love hearty, satisfying meals that are both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ideal for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Description
This dish features lean ground beef meatballs seasoned with garlic, basil, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs, paired with a robust tomato sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of chili flakes. Served over al dente spaghetti and garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan, Spaghetti, and Meatballs offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients For Spaghetti And Meatballs
For the Meatballs:
- 650g Lean Ground Beef (5% or less fat)
- 2 Garlic Cloves (diced)
- Chopped Basil
- 2 Tsp Salt
- 1 Tsp Dried Sage
- 1 Tsp Onion Powder
- 15g Grated Parmesan or Pecorino
- 30g Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Large Egg
- Cooking Spray (I used chosen foods avocado spray)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 4 Garlic Cloves (diced)
- 1 Tsp Chili Flakes
- 800g Crushed Tomatoes
- 5-10g 0 Calorie Sweetener of Choice (I used stevia)
- Salt to Taste (taste and adjust)
For the Spaghetti:
- 300g Spaghetti Pasta (uncooked weight)
- Salted Water
- Reserve 30-50ml Pasta Water (add to the sauce at the end)
For Garnishes:
- Fresh Chopped Basil (optional)
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
Recipe by@panaceapalm
Step-by-Step Making Instructions
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, diced garlic, chopped basil, salt, dried sage, onion powder, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and spray with cooking spray.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the diced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and sweetener. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 30-50ml of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
- Add the reserved pasta water to the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of cooked spaghetti.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Even Cooking: Ensure the meatballs are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Flavorful Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and heat of the sauce by adding more or less sweetener and chili flakes to taste.
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the spaghetti until al dente to maintain a firm texture that pairs well with the rich sauce.
Nutrition Information About Spaghetti And Meatballs
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 70g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 35g |
Health Concerns About Spaghetti And Meatballs
While Spaghetti and Meatballs is a delicious treat, consider the following health aspects:
- Sodium Content: This dish contains salt in various components. Adjust as needed if you are monitoring your sodium intake.
- Fat Content: Using lean ground beef helps manage the fat content, but be mindful of portion sizes.
- Caloric Content: This dish is relatively high in calories, so balance it with other meals accordingly.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flavorful: A delicious combination of savory meatballs and rich tomato sauce.
- Visually Appealing: Golden brown meatballs and vibrant tomato sauce make this dish a feast for the eyes.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a quick meal with minimal cleanup.
Cons:
- Preparation Time: Requires time for forming and cooking the meatballs and preparing the sauce.
- High Sodium Content: May be high in sodium, so adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Caloric Content: High in calories, which may require careful portion control for those on a strict calorie-controlled diet.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for this dish?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a meat substitute for a different flavor and texture.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for extra heat.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and gluten-free pasta for the spaghetti.
What can I serve with Spaghetti and Meatballs?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can form the meatballs and prepare the tomato sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook just before serving.
Can I use regular dairy products instead of dairy-free?
If you are not following a dairy-free diet, you can use regular Parmesan cheese and any milk for the sauce.
Conclusion
Spaghetti and Meatballs is a timeless classic that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs and rich, savory tomato sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for those who love hearty, satisfying meals that are both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ideal for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones, and savor every bite of this flavorful, nutritious meal.